Bill Dixon

William Thomas (Bill) Dixon, 91, passed away on Wednesday March 9, 2016 in Abilene. Graveside services will be 3:00p.m., Friday March 11, 2016 in the Texas State Veterans Cemetery, under the direction Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory St. Visitation will be from 6:00p.m. to 8:00p.m., Thursday March 10, 2016 at the funeral home.

Mr. Dixon was born October 5, 1924, in Clifton, Texas, to Thomas Harry Dixon and Joann Looney Dixon. Bill was truly a member of the greatest generation. His loyalty to God, family and country was extraordinary.

He was always most proud of his service to his country. He served in the army air force during WWII as a ball turret gunner on the B-24 bomber in the European theater flying 50 missions. He survived two plane crashes and statistics; ball turret gunners had a 15% survival rate. He earned several awards during his service which include the Distinguished Flying Cross Air Medal and the 2 Oak Leaf Clusters Air Medal as well as Campaign Medals that include the European-African-Middle Eastern and the Bronze Battle Participation Star for Italy. Special achievements include being commended for efficiency in recognition of courageous service and aerial combat. Bill had an abiding respect for everyone who has served in combat and always admired and appreciated all veterans.

Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, June Dixon; daughter, Brenda Webb; and his parents. He is survived by his wife, Carol Dixon; daughter, Kay Payne and husband, Robert; son, Billy Dixon and wife, Kathy; stepchildren, Leigh Anne Boudreaux and husband, Aaron, Brian Cumby and wife, Elizabeth, Casey Cumby and wife, Misty; and 13 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.